Lesbians, bisexuals, gay men and transgendered people

Vincent, John
.
Lesbians, bisexuals, gay men and transgendered people., 2000
In:
Open to All? : the Public Library and Social Exclusion.
London: Resource: The Council for Museums, Archives and Libraries, pp. 62-85.
[Book chapter]

English abstract

The paper argues that although writings on social exclusion have largely ignored “lesbigays” (lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered people), they can be socially excluded. It begins by contrasting the cultural acceptance of lesbigay images with the reality of discrimination and homophobia. It then gives instances of this discrimination, such as criminal attacks, harassment and legal discrimination, including “Clause 28”. The next section of the paper looks at developments in the US and Canada and emphasises progress made within the US library profession. The paper then turns to UK public library services, referring to past research, including the (presently unpublished) Burning Issues Group survey of public library provision in London. It also comments on the general lack of research on lesbigays and public libraries. The effect of “Clause 28” is considered. The paper also suggests that libraries could learn from developments in the field of museums. It is concluded that overall provision for lesbigays is still patchy, with little attention having been paid to the needs of lesbigay communities. Recommendations for action are made (April, 1999).

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